MADRID (AP) Lionel Messi began crying before he even started speaking. The most difficult moment of his career had arrived and he wasnt ready for it.

It was time to say goodbye to Barcelona after more than two decades with the Catalan club.

I dont know if Ill be able to speak, he said while trying to compose himself during his farewell news conference at the Camp Nou Stadium on Sunday. It still hasnt sunk in that Im leaving this club, that my life will be changing completely. It will be a difficult change for me and especially for my family. But we have to accept it and move on.

Messi struggled to control his emotions and cried profusely as he stepped up to the podium at the Camp Nou.